Levels of Response

Guidelines

The level of threat or potential threat to lives and property generated by a disaster or emergency will determine the level of response the City will undertake. The characteristics and actions associated with each level of response are described below. These guidelines may be modified to meet the specific needs of an incident.

Level I

A Level I response is taken for conditions or activities that exceed normal resource utilization for response but can be carried out within the confines and capabilities of one department.

Level II

Level II responses are for incidents that have special or unusual characteristics requiring response by more than one City department or that are beyond the scope of available resources.

Level III

A Level III incident exceeds the City’s normal response capabilities. It requires the coordinated response of all levels of government to save the lives and property of a significant portion of the population.

For More Information

For specific, detailed information about each of the above levels, please view Levels of Response.